A Garbage Disposal Can Save the Day This Thanksgiving!
Of all the things to be thankful for this Thanksgiving, garbage disposals may not be on most people’s top ten. But the garbage disposal is the unsung hero of any kitchen! Not only does it make food prep and cleanup so much easier, but it also helps prevent nasty issues like foul odors and drain clogs.
And on no day is the garbage disposal more important than Thanksgiving Day. With such a massive feast being cooked up for the family, the kitchen sink is destined to see a whole lot of action. But if the disposal isn’t working properly, the festivities might grind to a halt. So read on to discover the valuable role disposals play in the kitchen, how to maintain them, and how to tell when they need repairs.
Preventing Drain Clogs
The convenience that garbage disposals provide is a huge benefit that every homeowner can be thankful for - but their most important function is to prevent drain clogs. Food waste can become stuck inside the drain pipes under the kitchen sink and collect, eventually forming a blockage.
A garbage disposal grinds up food with a spinning impeller until it’s reduced to tiny chunks, which then fall through small holes in the bottom of the impeller plate. One can then wash these small morsels down the drainpipe with very little risk of getting stuck and forming a clog. This is what makes them such a vital part of kitchen plumbing.
Disposal Maintenance - The Best Way To Show Gratitude
Homeowners can give thanks to their garbage disposals year-round simply by taking care of them. Fortunately, this doesn’t take much effort at all. Firstly, it’s best to limit what goes down the drain. Tough food waste like bones, melon rinds, and fruit pits can strain the impeller motor and wear out the disposal faster. Even eggshells, coffee grounds, and starchy foods (i.e., potato skins) can cause problems. Instead, one should use the disposal for softer foods.
That said, one can put ice cubes and rock salt down the drain to clean the garbage disposal. Simply put a cup of each down the disposal and run it with a steady stream of cold water. Then, put some baking soda and vinegar into the drain to help kill bacteria. Finally, put some fresh citrus peel down the drain and grind it up while running warm water. This will add even more cleaning power and give the disposal a nice, fresh scent.
Signs a Garbage Disposal Needs Repairing
Basic maintenance goes a long way to help keep a garbage disposal working properly, but sometimes repairs may be needed - particularly if the unit is old or worn out. If the disposal is leaking, it could indicate that a gasket needs replacing or that internal components are rusted out. If it makes strange noises while running, there may be a piece of silverware, glass, or another object in the food chamber, but it may also indicate motor issues or a broken component.
Suppose the breaker trips or the lights always flicker whenever the disposal is turned on. In that case, it may indicate a wiring issue or a failing motor, in which case the homeowners should call a pro for garbage disposal repair immediately. These issues may create an electrical hazard. Likewise, if the unit isn’t getting power or its performance is suffering, it may be time to replace it. And since garbage disposal installation is no easy task, it’s always best to have it done by a pro!
About All Clear Plumbing
All Clear Plumbing has been a trusted industry leader in Belleville, NJ since 1952. Their trustworthy licensed and insured technicians always arrive on time in fully stocked trucks and listen carefully to provide tailored solutions to each customer. All Clear offers up-front pricing, 24/7 emergency plumbing service, and a beneficial membership plan.
